2018-2024 Honda Odyssey Console Tray: Damage, Variations & Replacement

Understanding the 2018-2024 Honda Odyssey Console

For the fifth-generation Honda Odyssey (2018-2024), the front center console is a large, fixed unit, a departure from the removable consoles in some prior generations. This console houses storage compartments, cup holders, power outlets, and on higher trims (Touring and Elite), a wireless charging pad. When discussing the "console tray," it's important to identify which specific piece is needed, as the assembly is made of multiple components that can be replaced individually.

Key Console Components:

• Main Storage Bin/Pocket: The primary deep storage area.
• Sliding Lid/Cover: The tambour-style or solid sliding door that covers the main storage area.
• Drop-in Organizers: Aftermarket or OEM trays that sit inside the main bin to create compartments.
• Side Panels/Trim: The finished panels on the driver and passenger sides of the console.
• Rear Panel: The trim piece at the back of the console, facing the second-row passengers.

Common Issues & Symptoms of Failure

As a non-electronic, non-mechanical part, the console tray and its components do not "fail" in a way that affects vehicle operation. Issues are almost always related to physical damage or wear and tear from daily use.

1. Cracked or Broken Plastic

The most common issue is physical damage. Dropping heavy objects into the bin, impact from the side, or excessive force can cause the plastic to crack or break. This is purely a cosmetic issue but can leave sharp edges.

2. Malfunctioning Sliding Lid

The sliding lid that covers the console can sometimes jam or break. This is often caused by debris (like coins or crumbs) falling into the tracks, or by one of the delicate plastic slats in a tambour-style door breaking and preventing it from retracting smoothly.

3. Scratches, Stains, and Discoloration

Constant use makes the console surfaces susceptible to scratches from keys, stains from spills, and potential discoloration or warping from prolonged sun exposure, although this is less common on modern interior plastics.

4. Broken Mounting Tabs or Clips

When removing console components for cleaning or to access wiring, the small plastic clips and tabs that hold the pieces together can easily break if not handled carefully. This can lead to panels that are loose, rattle, or don't fit flush.

Buying a Used 2018-2024 Odyssey Console Tray

Purchasing a used OEM console component is an excellent way to save money over a new part from the dealer. Since these are cosmetic parts, a used one in good condition is functionally identical to a new one. Here’s what to look for.

Key Inspection Points:

• Check for Cracks: Thoroughly inspect the entire part, especially corners and edges, for any hairline cracks or stress marks. Pay close attention to the bottom of storage bins.
• Verify All Tabs are Intact: This is the most critical step. Carefully examine the back and sides of the panel or tray. Compare it to photos of a new part to ensure all mounting tabs and clip receivers are present and not broken off. A part with broken tabs will not install securely.
• Test Mechanisms: If buying a complete console assembly or a component with a lid, operate the sliding mechanism or latch multiple times to ensure it moves smoothly without binding or sticking.
• Assess Cosmetic Condition: Look for deep scratches, chemical stains, or significant sun fading that won't be easily cleaned or restored. Minor scuffs are normal, but deep gouges will be noticeable.
• Confirm Trim and Color: The Odyssey was offered with different interior colors like beige, black, and brown. Ensure the part you are buying matches your vehicle's interior color code. Part numbers often vary based on color. For example, 83404-THR-A01ZA is listed for beige interiors, while 83409-THR-A01ZC is for brown.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Honda or the NHTSA for the console tray or its related plastic components. The console is a simple, durable part with no history of widespread failure.

Searches for recalls and TSBs related to the 2018-2024 Odyssey center console did not return any results for the console structure itself. There have been recalls for other components in the vehicle, such as a recent one for rearview cameras on 2018-2020 models, but these are unrelated to the console assembly.

Cost & Replacement Info

Installation

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5 (for simple panels), 3 out of 5 (for the main assembly)
• Estimated Time: 0.5 hours for a side panel, 1-1.5 hours for the main console bin.
• DIY Feasible: Yes, for a patient DIYer with basic tools.

Replacing a side panel is relatively easy and usually involves carefully prying it off. However, removing the entire center console assembly is more involved. It requires removing side panels, lifting rubber mats to access screws (typically 10mm), disconnecting wiring harnesses for power outlets and the wireless charger, and then lifting the entire unit out. While doable for a DIYer, it requires care to avoid breaking plastic clips.

Cost Comparison

Prices for console components can vary widely. Simple side panels are inexpensive, while a complete console assembly is much more costly.

Prices are estimates and can vary based on supplier, condition, and specific part number. Shop labor is not typically quoted for this part as it's often replaced as part of a larger interior repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)